Are we designed to nap during the day? Most people try to get their recommended seven to nine hours of sleep in one long stretch at night, which is called "monophasic sleep." However, we might naturally need a different sleep pattern. Many people feel sleepy in the afternoon, which is not just due to eating a big lunch but is hardwired into our brains. This suggests we may need "biphasic sleep," with a long sleep at night and a short nap in the afternoon, similar to siestas in some cultures. Naps can benefit the brain and body, but long naps can make it harder to sleep at night. If you struggle with sleep, it's best not to nap. But if you sleep well at night, short naps of about 20 minutes early in the day can be good.
Vocabulary:
Monophasic (adjective): Referring to something that occurs in a single phase or part.
Hardwired (adjective): Built-in and difficult to change.
Electrodes (noun): Devices that conduct electricity and are used to measure brain activity.
Biphasic (adjective): Having two phases or parts.
Siesta (noun): A short nap taken in the early afternoon.
Double-edged sword (noun): Something that has both good and bad consequences.
Alertness (noun): The state of being awake and able to think clearly.
Source: TED